Contentions

On the Way to Vernan

Rufus took about a day to gather the people needed to start their journey along the western coast to the Asterian merchant city of Vernan. The merchant caravan included about twenty people—not only men from the guild but also women, children, and their families. The families joined to support and help establish a sense of community once they reached Vernan, ensuring the trade efforts would be more sustainable and secure. Traveling with families made the caravan appear less conspicuous as they crossed potentially hostile territory.

The sun began rising as Rufus approached Alara and Rasa with two horses in tow. He held out the reins with a nod.

"Here, take these," he offered. "It'll be easier on horseback."

Rasa shook her head, her body tensing slightly as she kept her distance from the animals. "No, thank you. I'll walk. I prefer it that way."

Rufus raised an eyebrow but shrugged. "Suit yourself." He handed the reins of one horse to Alara.

Alara took the reins, smiling softly. "I haven't ridden since I was a child." She looked at Rasa, noticing her friend's unease. "Are you sure you don't want to ride?"

Rasa shook her head again, her gaze lingering on the horses before meeting Alara's eyes. "I feel more in control on foot. I can react better to any dangers."

Alara nodded, though she couldn't help but wonder if there was more to Rasa's reluctance—maybe something from her past, like a fall or an accident. She didn't press further, stroking the horse's neck as a memory flashed.

"My father used to take me riding," she said softly, her voice tinged with nostalgia. "He looked so proud watching me and my brother learn. It was one of the few times I felt I'd made him happy." She smiled wistfully, then looked at Rasa. "I think I'll take this one."

Rasa gave her a faint smile before returning to preparing for the journey. She moved swiftly, packing the dried foods and bread she had bought while the caravan assembled. The scent of sun-dried fruits and the earthy aroma of fresh loaves comfort her amid the anticipation. Even as she moved efficiently, tension gripped her. Each item she packed felt like a necessity and a weight, strengthening her resolve to protect Alara at any cost. She filled several water canteens, the metal clinking as she handed them to Alara to store in her horse's pouch.

The journey ahead promised to be long, and Alara and Rasa knew the road would be fraught with both expected and unforeseen dangers. As they prepared to depart, they exchanged glances, each knowing their bond would be tested by whatever lay ahead.

The caravan set off, the wagons creaking and the horses' hooves clopping against the gravel road. As they moved, Rufus rode alongside Alara's horse on a horse of his own, his expression thoughtful. Eventually, he cleared his throat, and Alara turned her gaze toward him.

"Thank you for your help, Guildmaster," Alara said gently, bowing her head. "It will be remembered."

"Anyone who cares about their people would do whatever they can to help," Rufus replied. He glanced toward Rasa, who rolled her eyes and moved to walk ahead of the caravan.

Alara smiled apologetically. "Nevertheless, it is appreciated."

Rufus returned her smile. "Of course." He began to turn away but hesitated. "My Lady," he said hesitantly. He urged his horse closer to her, her eyes questioning.

"Do you trust her?" Rufus asked, nodding toward Rasa, who had walked just out of earshot, her eyes narrowing as she watched them. "The Jabali?"

"My friend," Alara corrected him, her voice firm. "I trust her with my life."

Rufus shifted awkwardly. "Of course. I only mean these are dangerous times. Some people will try to use you if they know who you are. I don't want you getting hurt." He laid his hand softly on hers.